Bernese Mountain Dogs (“Berners”) are one of the 150+ breeds currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. Named for the Canton of Bern, they are working dogs with origins in the farm areas of Switzerland. Historically, Berners were general purpose farm dogs. Their large, hardy frames and calm-natured, people-oriented temperaments made them ideal companions and watchdogs for the farmer. They were also used to pull carts and to accompany cows for short distances to pasture. While Bernese Mountain Dogs are wonderful creatures with a long list of attributes, not all Berners exemplify the best the breed has to offer. This is not a breed for everyone, and every dog possesses individual strengths and weaknesses. Before you decide to make a Berner part of your family, thoroughly research the breed, talk to reputable breeders and knowledgeable owners, and get to know some of the dogs themselves.